Freeport Mayor Jim Gitz back on Illinois Municipal League board

Monday

Dec 23, 2013 at 5:53 PMDec 23, 2013 at 5:53 PM

FREEPORT - Mayor Jim Gitz has been selected as one of the newest members of the Illinois Municipal League board of directors.

"It's an honor to be one of a handful of people in a state that has hundreds of cities and municipalities," he said. "The best part of being on the board is that it gives you a seat at the table in framing policy and procedures."

The nonprofit, nonpolitical association of 1,124 municipalities aims to articulate, defend, maintain and promote the interests and concerns of Illinois communities.

"Its most significant function is to fight for local interests in the Illinois General Assembly," Gitz said. "The group takes an active role in legislation."

Gitz served on the board from 2001 to 2005; this appointment came in October.

Belvidere Mayor Michael Chamberlain also was tabbed for a seat, and Loves Park Mayor Darryl Lindberg was elected president of the board for the next year.

"Many times conversations with other mayors can be very helpful," Gitz said. "You get to personally know other mayors who are similarly situated and hear about what they've done in their communities."

Executive Director Larry Frang has known Gitz since 1974 and was pleased that the nomination committee chose him: "He will make an excellent addition to the board, as he did as a part of it previously."

Gitz will serve a one-year term, which is likely to be extended until he leaves the mayor's office.

"The informal network is extremely helpful," he said. "We bounce ideas and experiences off of one another. The ties you build on the board have direct benefits to our constituents.

"The training offered as well as the exchange of information are very important when dealing with our work effectively."

Nick Crow: 815-232-0136; ncrow@journalstandard.com; @Crow_Nick

Never miss a story

Choose the plan that's right for you.
Digital access or digital and print delivery.